The future of free primary and secondary education in Kenya has become a subject of intense national debate. Amidst swirling concerns, President William Ruto has stepped forward with a resolute assurance to Kenyans: access to education will not be compromised, emphasizing its status as a constitutional right and a paramount government priority.
Speaking passionately during a church service at ACK St. Martins Parish Light Industries Church in Kariobangi on Sunday, President Ruto unequivocally stated, "Education is the greatest empowerment that any society or country can give its people. It must be affordable, accessible, of good quality, and relevant." His remarks served as a direct and crucial rebuttal to recent statements by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, which had sent ripples of anxiety across the nation.
Just days prior, CS Mbadi had ignited a stir by publicly stating that the government could no longer afford to fully fund free primary and secondary education due to escalating budgetary constraints. This admission sparked widespread concern among parents, educators, and education stakeholders who feared a potential rollback of vital educational gains.
In response, President Ruto moved swiftly to reassure the public, affirming his administration's unwavering commitment. "I want to give assurance that education cannot be compromised—not access, not quality, not affordability, and not relevance," the President declared, making it clear that his government intends to ensure no child is denied an education due to financial challenges or teacher shortages.
The President also took the opportunity to highlight tangible steps his government has undertaken over the past two years to fortify the education sector. These measures include the recruitment of a significant number of teachers (with reports indicating tens of thousands hired and more planned), increased funding allocated to school infrastructure development, and an expansion of access to digital learning tools. He further lauded the church for its enduring partnership in promoting education, particularly in underserved communities, recognizing its foundational role in Kenya's learning landscape.
However, the dialogue remains complex. Treasury CS Mbadi has stood firmly by his earlier statements, reiterating his position before Parliament’s Education Committee on July 24. He maintained that due to rising student enrollment and a constricted fiscal space, the government is indeed financially unable to sustain full capitation for every student. Mbadi candidly revealed that the capitation grant for secondary school students, which was originally set at Ksh 22,244 per learner, has now been reduced to Ksh 16,900. He clarified that while the government disburses the full approved budget amount for capitation, this approved amount itself is insufficient to meet the full cost per student.
